On Wednesday evening, Wesley Hannah, chairperson of the Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF) Portage Local, was honoured with the King Charles III Coronation Medal during a routine monthly general meeting—an award that took him entirely by surprise.
“I was just in shock. I couldn't believe that somebody like me would receive an award like that,” Hannah explains. “I'm very honored and humbled. I'm very proud of all the people at the regional level who assist with things like this: our Vice President of the Southwest region, Leah LaPlante, our Minister of Housing and Property Management, Will Goodon, and Minister of the MET Program, John Fleury, who passed away recently. He was a big part of this and helped me along the way a ton.”
Decades of dedication
Hannah’s involvement with the MMF began when he was 18, but his leadership journey took off about ten years later when he was first elected as local chair. He served in that role for seven years before stepping back temporarily due to family health concerns. Over the last three and a half years, he has resumed his leadership role while continuing long-standing commitments at the regional level.
“I stepped back a bit for a time, but I've been involved with the MET program for close to 20 years now. It's a passion I enjoy; it doesn’t feel like work whatsoever. I like to help those in need, and that's exactly what the MMF does.”
A team effort
While the medal recognizes his efforts, Hannah says the team around him is integral to the locals' success.
“We have an amazing group of people who volunteer. I'm very proud of those people and the work that they do. It makes Portage Local that much better. And of course, the executives are a great group of people. I can't say enough about them. I’m quite proud to be a part of it.”
Looking ahead
Now setting his sights on regional leadership, Hannah is preparing to campaign for a higher position within the MMF in the upcoming election cycle.
“I'll be shooting to do some campaigning coming up, and hopefully we can get some votes in place and go from there.”
A lasting honour
The King Charles III Coronation Medal, awarded for years of volunteer service, now holds a special place in Hannah’s life and career.
“Receiving this medal is the highlight of my life, and I will always be very proud of it. I thank the MMF, and I appreciate that they recognize all the work I've done on a volunteer basis and the connection that we provide for our community here in Portage la Prairie."
As he reflects on decades of service and looks ahead to new challenges, Hannah’s enduring passion for his community remains the true measure of his leadership.